The Ease of Great Faith
Pastor Steve Jones (President, Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches in Canada)
Luke 7: 1 – 10
April 19, 2015
- A man of uncommon character (vv 2-6)
- He was willing to sacrifice (v 5)
- He was merciful (vv 2-3)
- He was humble (v 6) – many great qualities but Jesus comments on his faith
- A man of uncommon faith (vv 7-9)
- Authority explains faith (vv 7-8)
- Amazement explains Jesus’ reaction (vs 9)
- Two Reflections:
- Great faith is not always characteristic of great people (Mark 4:40, Luke 17:5) – we don’t even know the centurion’s name – some of the most faith-filled people are quiet, behind-the-scenes people
- Great faith, like great strength, is most often revealed when it is easily exercised. (John 5:12-13) – as we consistently trust Him, it becomes “easier”
We get to choose every day how much God chooses to bless us (not always health, wealth, etc)
Jesus was often amazed by people’s lack of faith but in this story He was amazed at the centurion’s faith – do we occasionally amaze Him by our faith?